Late Wednesday, the Israeli navy intercepted 13 boats from the Global Sumud Flotilla, a fleet of nearly 50 vessels carrying 500 activists, including Greta Thunberg, attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The flotilla, which set sail from Barcelona a month ago, aimed to break Israel’s 18-year maritime blockade of the Palestinian territory.

Organizers reported the Sirius, Alma, and Adara boats were stopped 80 miles off Gaza’s coast. Despite the interception, the remaining vessels vowed to continue their mission. “We are undeterred in our goal to deliver aid and challenge the blockade,” said a statement from the group, which includes notable figures like Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela, and former Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau.

American veteran Greg Stoker, aboard the Ohwayla, described the encounter on social media, saying a dozen Israeli naval vessels with disabled transponders approached, demanding the flotilla halt or face seizure. Activists reported water cannons being used against some boats. The Israeli Foreign Ministry shared footage of Thunberg on a ship’s deck, confirming the activists were safe and being transferred to an Israeli port. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani estimated the operation would take 2-3 hours, with activists to be towed to Ashdod and deported.

Also Read: Gaza Aid Armada Resumes Voyage After Tempest, Faces Israeli Barrier

Turkey condemned the interception as an “act of terrorism” and a violation of international law, demanding the release of detained citizens. The flotilla, sailing in international waters north of Egypt, had entered a “danger zone” where Israel has previously stopped similar missions. Israel’s Foreign Ministry warned the flotilla earlier, citing an “active combat zone” and offering to redirect the aid through other channels. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar labeled the effort a “provocation,” while alleging, without substantial evidence, that some activists were linked to Hamas—a claim the group firmly denied.

European responses varied. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defended the flotilla as a humanitarian mission, noting it wouldn’t be necessary if Israel allowed aid into Gaza. He promised diplomatic protection for Spanish activists. Conversely, Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni urged the flotilla to avoid confrontation, citing risks to diplomatic efforts. Both Spain and Italy had escorted the flotilla earlier in its journey.

Under international maritime law, states generally cannot seize ships beyond 12 nautical miles from their shores, though armed conflict allows exceptions. Yuval Shany, an international law expert at Hebrew University, argued Israel’s blockade, if militarily justified, permits interception after warnings. However, Omer Shatz, another legal expert, emphasized that international law guarantees humanitarian aid delivery, even under a blockade, provided Israel can inspect cargo for weapons.

The flotilla’s livestreams captured activists chanting “Free Palestine!” and displaying solidarity messages. As night fell, they donned life vests, anticipating the Israeli navy’s approach. Organizers acknowledged the likelihood of interception but stressed the flotilla’s scale—dozens of boats—made it the largest attempt yet to challenge the blockade.

Also Read: Israel Draws Red Line in Gaza as Trump’s Peace Deal Faces Final Countdown